Chapter 24

Jake is a guy who pursues what he wants and doesn’t care who it affects. We are like chalk and cheese.

“Tetchy this morning, Buttercup… losing that cool demeanor an awfully lot lately.” He tweaks my cheek immaturely, and impulsively I raise a fist and slide into fighter mode, ready to take the shit head-on in this mood. He slaps my clenched fist with his palm, dancing around, ready to spar, and laughs at me while lifting defensive fists in readiness. Our childish sparring, we do a lot. Lightening my mood a little at how much of a dumb ass he is, always ready to play fight and carry on like we are still kids. He makes a few mock jabs in mid-air, which I dodge expertly.

“I will fuck you up,” I growl at him, no longer feeling serious but still feeling messy inside. Sophie knows how to screw me up without trying, and I wonder if she knows how badly she gets to me. I wonder if she knows how much she fucks my head and heart. Going to fight training is the only thing keeping me